Original subtitles

"Roger-The-Shame"

I was sure I'd seen you fall, sir.

Those bastards didn't want me to come looking for you.

I'll never forget it, Roger.

No more bets!

11, black, odds and low.

Place your bets, gentlemen.

No more bets.

- Roger? - Madame.

- Oh, I'm sorry. - That's alright.

5, red, odds and low.

Roger?

Place your bets, gentlemen.

No more bets.

17, black, odds and low.

Are you going to offer me a cigarette?

Surely you wouldn't smoke here, would you?

So let's leave, shall we?... I'm just dying for a cigarette.

Do you know who that woman is?

- I don't believe it's my place... - You can stop believing, my friend.

Madame Martinez. A Spaniard... or something like that.

And the man?

There's no Mr Martinez... She's a widow.

Parisian industrialist. He has money. He needs it.

- Did you lose much'? - Much too much.

It is sheer madness... I behave like a child.

All this is madness.

Well, I find this madness quite wonderful and rational.

I'm accountable to nobody but you, Roger.

But as for you... What do you tell your wife?

You, who are so scrupulous and honest!

Maria, I hate it when you talk to me about my wife.

You love your wife... You adore your daughter.

I don't understand what pushed you into making this mistake...

because you do regard me as being a mistake... a sin.

If I found the strength... no, not even the strength...

the time to analyse that feeling which pulls me towards you...

I believe I could tear myself away from you

But when I'm close to you, I'm seized by a passion...

inexplicable and unjustifiable.

Roger... it's called LOVE.

If you only knew how I treasure that... what did you call it...

inexplicable, unjustifiable passion which holds you to me.

By the way, Roger... I haven't forgotten my debt.

It's unpleasant for me to discuss money matters with you.

I promise not to mention it again.

But I do need to remind you that you gave me 100.000 francs.

I only accepted it as a loan...

No question about it.

From now on, I'll show how I can be more sensible, because I have you.

Why should I need to please any other men?

Following your instructions, I've sold some shares.

We can try and meet all our obligations.

- Has Vivien paid yet? - No, sir.

Business is difficult, with this social unrest.

You shouldn't have enlarged the workshops.

Remember what your father-in-law had advised?

What he also said was... "A business that doesn't grow, goes backwards. “

Any news on the Robernon estate?

Yes... but not very good...

Mr Robenon did not have time to draft his will...

and everything went to to his only nephew, Larouette...

He took immediate possession of his fortune...

and your debt of 140,000 francs.

During your absence, Larouette made himself known.

He demands immediate payment of your debt.

So I told him you were not here...

and he made an appointment for this morning.

Can we do anything about the estate going to this "Lalouette"?

Larouette.

No... and we could pay off Larouette...

but it will result in serious problems for the business.

It's absolutely essential that you find some way of delaying payment.

Thanks for that, Jean.

Mr Laroque.

Mr Larouette?

Roger Laroque, of the 6th Mounted Regiment?

My wife found your address in the Stock Exchange Gazette.

I thought she only read novels.

Noirville... Lucien. Good God!

The man you snatched from the jaws of death... that's all!

The war... the Empire, the Prussians...

And of course, Sedan!

I remember Sedan... It's 15 years now.

Yes... 15 years since you left me.

No sign, no letter, nothing.

- I'd given you my address. - Lost it.

So much has happened since then.

I looked for you everywhere...

For a long time I hoped to meet you...

maybe bump into you on a street corner.

We live in different places... amongst different people.

Were you captured?

Yes. But I escaped after two months.

I didn't like the food!

I rejoined the army on the Loire.

I saw action.

I came back to Paris after the Commune.

Then, I thought of settling down in Algeria...

a dream land for business, a way to make a fortune.

It's also a good distraction from the humiliation of defeat.

Yes, I went there, too. I haven't told you... I'm a lawyer.

I'd accompanied a mission...

after the revolt of the Kabila Berbers... to confiscate their lands...

to give to Alsatians who'd fought against the Prussians.

I met my wife down there.

This has been our honeymoon.

- Is that your wife? - Yes.

- Happily married? - Yes.

I married the boss's daughter.

My father-in-law, who I was very fond of, died soon after our marriage.

So now I'm the boss.

There's no fortune here now, but it may be the way in the future.

It's not easy. The war killed confidence.

I need you, Roger.

I don't have any friends.

Sure, I've got relatives, but no real friends.

I need them.

And then you'll give me advice on my industrial processes!

Just a moment.

It's Thursday... I'll be expecting you at my place tomorrow evening.

With your wife, of course.

Julia will be delighted to have a girlfriend. Don't lose my address again.

This time, you won't escape my friendship!

Your friendship's most welcome, Lucien...

Something tells me it will bring me luck.

Is Larouette waiting?

No... and his absence bothers me. It doesn't fit his character.

I'd rather see him here in your office. No doubt you can get a delay.

As I said, we could possibly pay him... Here's the money.

But it'd be disastrous for us... So I beg you to be careful.

Oh, my God!

No harm done... The numbers are readable.

That wouldn't stop Larouette taking them.

Mr Roger, if Larouette doesn't come to your office...

why don't you go and see him at his home?

He lives in Ville d'Avray, where you've rented for the summer.

I even believe he has the house next to yours.

What is it? Who are you?

I'm Roger Laroque.

No! No! I can't do anything!

There's nothing I can do! I can't agree to a delay!

I demand full repayment immediately, of my money!

Do you hear me'? I demand it!

That's your right... But it will ruin me.

- Get out of here! - Let me explain...

Don't explain anything! I don't want any explanations!

I want my money! Nothing but my money!

Outside!

- Just give me 2 weeks. - No!

- One week. - No! I said no!

You have to give me time.

Victoria!

- Sir'? - Where's Mrs Laroque?

She's in her room with Suzanne.

- Daddy! - Hello, my sweet!

- Aren't you feeling well? - Nothing really new.

Come and sit beside me for 5 minutes.

Victoria's fixed you everything you need.

What's wrong? You look as if you've had a bad day.

Are you sick too, Daddy'?

Not at all, darling.

Victoria, would you put Suzanne to bed?

Be a good girl... Your Daddy will come and tuck you in.

He has to turn the light off.

I promise... In just a minute, my pet.

There's nothing you want to tell me?

There really isn't anything to tell.

Since you came back from your last business trip...

you've seemed very preoccupied.

Are you sure things are going as you'd wish?

Just a few of the usual hassles.

Waiting on some slow payments, but nothing serious.

It's your health that concerns me. You need a distraction.

You'll enjoy this... Guess who I saw today.

How could I guess?

That's true. It was an old friend from the war... He's a lawyer.

He made me promise to bring you to his place tomorrow for dinner.

He has a lovely wife. You'll have a friend.

We never' see anyone.

Here he is... Roger the dreamer.

I'm just so tired... so...

Let's see how I am tomorrow evening... alright?

Thank you for coming.

My wife is very unwell.

Julia will be disappointed. She wanted to get to know you both.

But at least you're here.

To all of you who are here tonight...

allow me to introduce Roger Laroque... my brother in arms.

If it wasn't for him, I'd be dead... But you all know the story.

Minister... here you truly have a hero...

At a time when there are so many phoneys, eh?

Julia'?

Yes, this really is Roger Laroque.

Delighted to meet you.

Your intuition was wonderful, darling...

It was thanks to you that I found my friend again.

I feel I've known you for a longtime.

My husband has often talked about you.

I know that you have a wife and a little girl...

. . and that you adore them both...

and that your business often takes you away from them.

My wife is unwell this evening, and she...

What a shame... I wanted to get to know her.

But we can't expect all the good things to happen at once.

This evening, we have YOU!

Roger, you look as though my wife may be intimidating you...

And well might you be afraid!... She has Arab blood in her veins!

I met my husband in Algeria. I suppose he told you.

He painted. Over there, the colors are beautiful.

- Do you know Delacroix? - No.

I've come to bid you good night, mother.

This is Mr Laroque. Your father's often spoken to you about him.

Ever since Raymond got this uniform, he won't be separated from it!

Congratulations for the education that you give your son...

His will be the generation of revenge.

Roger, come with me.

Minister, would you do me the honor of following me...

These electric bells are incredible.

I'm going to install them everywhere.

You should put them in your factory.

Have you a telephone, at least?

Not yet.

Come, I'll show you around the house.

If I had a way to erase our memories...

I'd use it on the spot, with pleasure!

Roger, you're hurting me... Let me go!

You'd like to slap me, wouldn't you? - Yes.

What are you waiting for?

Julia... since that's your name, I'm Lucien's friend.

Maria is dead! - But not Julia.

For me she is... You've got your husband and your son.

Lucien doesn't love me. He loves the memories of you two.

I'm too young to give myself up to my son.

You should be ashamed.

"Ashamed", is that all you can say?

You're nothing but a factory worker.

You don't want to see me any more because I owe you money.

Please don't drag up those painful subjects.

Is it because I'm married? But it's somehow alright for you!

It's different for men.

Divorce has become legal. I'll divorce and you can divorce.

You're insane!

I beg of you, Roger.

I prefer my friendship with Lucien, to my relationship with you.

Listen to me, Roger... I love you.

I built my life on you... on my love for you.

And even if you don't love me now as you did before...

I'd like that we could still see each other.

You disgust me. I couldn't bear to see you again!

I'll never forgive you.

I don't need your forgiveness.

I warn you... I'm not someone who can just be tossed aside.

Are you threatening me?

You could make me hate you, Roger.

Make no mistake... you have a lot to fear from my hatred.

Roger...

Listen... Roger, I beg of you...

We're being crazy.

I'll follow you. I'll follow you wherever you go.

I'll do anything I can to harm you.

I'll go and see your wife!

If you did that, I wouldn't hesitate for a moment...

I'd find a way to intimidate YOU... Mrs Martinez!

Larouette's been paid, as you asked.

To pay the staff and our essential commitments...

we need 160,000 francs.

We've been paid 58,000 francs... It's here.

If only we hadn't paid Larouette...

sl know, I know, I know!

Have you knocked on every door?

Yes... and every door stayed shut.

Bad news travels fast.

There's not a factory boss, nor a works foreman...

who wasn't expecting my business to fail.

No one's prepared to lend.

It's only when you don't need money that they'll come good.

Is the situation hopeless?

Look at me, Jean.

Do I look like a man about to go bankrupt?

No, sir... I still have hope.

Roger, I need to talk to you. Meet me this evening at the Luxembourg

It's very important. I'm counting on you. Julia

It's 11 o'clock... I don't want you to wait up any longer.

- I want so much to see Daddy. - Don't you want to sleep?

I don't know what could be keeping him.

Mummy... our new neighbour has come home.

There's Daddy.

Daddy! Daddy!

Daddy!

- That's not him. - Yes, it IS him!

Close the window... You'll catch cold.

Yes, it IS Roger.

What's he doing? Where's he going?

Daddy's going in to see our new neighbours.

- What's Daddy doing? - I've no idea, darling.

Suzanne, I beg of you... don't cry.

Listen to me carefully...

It has to be that you didn't see or hear anything.

You understood me?. You'll never say anything.

I'll never say anything.

Repeat after me...

"No, I saw nothing, I heard nothing. "

"I couldn't have heard anything. "

"I was fast asleep in Mummy's bed. “

"No, I saw nothing, I heard nothing. "

"I couldn't have heard anything. "

"I was fast asleep in Mummy's bed. “

My God! Mr Larouette!

So, Jean?

The situation's hardly changed.

I don't know what we'll do tomorrow.

I do, though... An unexpected turnaround...

We can pay those bills and the staff.

So we're saved... we can hang on.

It's a respite... perhaps salvation.

This will allow us to finish those machines...

Once they're delivered, all will be well.

I'm going to start thinking about some new patent ideas.

Just leave that there.

What on earth...?

It's alright... Police.

Mr Laroque... Inspector Lacroix.

Yes?

I like to come straight to the point...

A murder was committed last night, next door to your house.

Perhaps you know the name of the victim...

Larouette. -"Larouette"?

- You knew him'? - Yes.

We know that the late Mr Larouette is the same one...

to whom you have repaid a large sum of money, plus interest.

I found your letters at his home which spoke about this repayment.

Yesterday morning I repaid

more than 140,000 francs to Mr Larouette.

Did you know anything about his habits... his relationships?

I'd never laid eyes on him until a week ago.

I found him hard, curt, ruthless and very rude.

Can you tell us exactly how the 140,000 was made up?

145,000.

145... Do you know?

It's very important to us.

My cashier may provide those details.

Please tell her to facilitate our work...

by giving us all the information requested.

And if I refuse?

I'll disregard it.

First of all, I want the details of the values which made up...

the sum of 145,000 francs, repaid to Mr Larouette.

This money was not found at his house.

We think it's been stolen by the murderer...

the same day it had been paid to him.

That's easy. For 3 days, since February 28th...

we've had no cheques or securities on hand...

nothing but banknotes.

It appears to me that your business has been in a rather delicate position.

I almost suspended payments, but today we're square.

Indeed. I see the payment yesterday the sum of 58,000 francs...

paid in gold by Vivenne and Aurieux.

And today's date, the sum of 100,000 francs paid in bills...

with no indication of source.

- That's right. - What are you getting at?

Where did the 100,000 francs come from?

It was repaid to me by...

It was a totally unexpected repayment of a debt.

What was the name of the person repaying?

Your curiosity is quite indiscreet.

My time is valuable.

The name of the debtor!

I can't possibly tell you.

What if these were the notes that left your possession yesterday...

Larouette received them... he's been killed, they've been stolen...

and here they are in your factory.

It could be that you had someone kill and rob Larouette!

- That's insane! - Or maybe it was you!

My conscience is clear. lam quite innocent.

Easy to say!

I would prefer a clear rebuttal.

I swear to you that I'm telling the truth.

Arrest me, if you have to... But I shall say nothing more!

I know how to fight. And I shall fight to prove my innocence.

Hey, Laroque!

Your lawyer.

What are YOU doing here?!

Do you think I'll leave you struggling with the jury...

without your having a friend with you?

You want to defend me? You really want to defend me?!

What's so extraordinary about that? I'm a lawyer, aren't I?

What's the matter?

You don't seem very enthusiastic about my offer.

Have I done you a wrong?

Do you believe I'm innocent?

Of course and I'm going to prove it.

Don't you have confidence in me?

I don't really want you.

You're refusing to accept me, your friend, as your lawyer?

You don't want ME to save YOU?

But why didn't you consider asking ME for this money?

I did consider it.

But you don't want me as your lawyer.

I can't do it.

- But you Do have reasons? - Yes.

Can't you tell me what they are?

Do you know the evidence against me?

I've been given a copy of your file.

- You know they're very serious? - Yes, I do.

I know I'll be found guilty. I don't want to see you fail.

The court can appoint a lawyer for me.

But that's just childish... It's no reason at all.

A lawyer doesn't win every case.

The trickiest ones are where we shine most.

I don't believe you, Roger.

Now that you're through with your infantile nonsense...

I guess we can now get down to business...

with you as my client.

And don't lose heart.

Coming to the main piece of evidence against you...

the discovery of a sum of money in your cashbox...

that you refuse to disclose the provenance.

Tell me where that money came from, Roger.

- There's no point asking. - Can't I be the judge of that?

I'm sure of it.

You can't treat me as you did the police, with your "mystery".

- Stop pushing it! - So you refuse?

I refuse! Best you forget about defending me.

No, I shall defend you... and in spite of you, if that's what it takes.

I bet I can guess.

If I'm right, will you at least tell me I'm on the right track?

I was talking to Julia about you, yesterday...

and I told her that your stubbornness made me believe...

that you had a secret in your life...

involving a woman.

I was right.

Well, if it's true, it's not the same as the death of a man.

I'll get her to testify. - It's not a woman.

If you don't tell me, how do you expect me to defend you?!

- I don't WANT you! - I believe you're innocent.

And if I can, I will save your head, because it IS your head...

No doubt.

Guard!

Please be standing.

Be seated.

Bring in the accused.

Clerk, will you read the bill of indictment?

"On the night of 12 march 1885,

“in Ville-d'Avray, county of la Seine-et-Oise,

"a murder has been committed

"on the person of Mr Gaston Larouette,

"retired, age 58.

"Between 11 and 11.30pm...

"Mr Larouette was killed by a shot from a revolver

"by a person unknown. "

Mr Larouette had lived in the house for a month.

I am sure that he speculated on the stock exchange.

He'd go out in the morning and come back in the evening.

On Sunday he'd stay at home.

I cooked for him.

Did he keep money at home?

That I don't know, Your Honour... He didn't confide any secrets to me.

He didn't seem to get on with anybody.

With the neighbour, for example... the one in the villa behind.

One evening, Mr Laroque came to see Mr Larouette.

I'm not the nosy type, but they were screaming so loudly...

that I left the kitchen. Mr Larouette was afraid.

I could hear clearly. He screamed "No! No!" He was talking about money.

I could hear. I'm not deaf.

The victim fought back.

Someone had tried to choke him.

There were fingernail scratches made by a strong man.

And then, perhaps because Mr Larouette was slow to die...

he was finished off with a gunshot.

This seems to show that it was not the action of a common thug...

but a man in a hurry to finish, who had lost his head.

A gunshot during the night is unwise... There are neighbours.

I protest. The witness should not influence the jury.

Accepted, Counsellor.

Can you specify what time the murder took place?

Naturally... and without fear of being wrong.

Death occurred between 11. 30pm and midnight...

Probably closer to 11. 30.

The killer used a small-caliber pistol...

probably a pocket revolver.

Bailiff?

Like this one?

Exactly.

The shot hit the heart.

Death was instantaneous.

Gentlemen, this revolver was found in the house of the accused.

An extremely commonplace weapon...

I should be grateful if the prosecuting attorney

would amend his argument.

What time did you go to bed?

I went to bed very late...

much later than usual.

Why was it later than usual?

Madam was waiting for Mr Laroque, who came home after midnight.

- You haven't waited up till then? - Yes...

I was waiting to put little Suzanne to bed.

The child was usually in bed by 9.

That evening, Madam kept Suzanne with her.

They were waiting at the window.

They were watching out for Mr Laroque.

And Mrs Laroque didn't call for me.

Did you hear a gunshot?

No, Your Honour.

As Mrs Laroque wasn't calling for me...

I went down to the laundry.

It was just after Suzanne called out to her dad.

You heard Mr Laroque's daughter call out "Daddy“at the time of the murder?

Yes, Your Honour.

So she must have seen him?

She must have.

I remind the jury that the window...

where Mrs Laroque and her daughter watched for the return...

- This remains unproven. - We can see the Larouettes' house.

Yes, we called Roger from the window...

Knowing we could see him, he wouldn't have gone into the neighbour's.

That wouldn't be credible.

This is all quite improbable.

- It's all true, madam. - It's false!

What have I done to you and you cause us so much grief?

If I hadn't told what I knew...

Did Mr Laroque go to bed?

- His bed wasn't unmade. - This girl is insane.

Her imagination has gone wild, from reading novels.

It's all the result of extravagant behaviour.

After all this, it is impossible for me to remain in your service.

While I'm looking for a new position...

I'll stay with my sister who lives on Ornano Boulevard.

Do you want the address?

Yes, do that. We'll write to you when we need you.

It all proves, Mrs Laroque, that from your balcony...

although not being able to prevent it...

you would have seen Larouette being murdered.

You were a witness to the murder.

If the guilty party is not Roger Laroque...

you will find yourself at the disposition of the law.

I expected your silence.

And by your silence... you condemn your husband.

I protest! Mrs Laroque's silence is due to her extreme fatigue.

Why did SHE have to be brought into it'?

You can see that she's ill... and you're in the process of killing her.

It's pointless going on, sir...

I've told you what I remember and I've nothing to add...

and nothing to take back.

Inspector Lacroix.

- Lean on me. - Thank you, Inspector.

Excuse me, Mrs Laroque...

Is this scarf yours?

- It's Roger's. - I'll return it to him.

Your Honour... this scarf belongs to the accused.

It was found near Larouette's body.

Yes, it was bankruptcy.

Laroque himself acknowledged it, in a letter to his creditor.

There was only one thing left he could do, get the money back from Larouette...

and if he resisted, kill him.

You've no right to say that!

Roger Laroque needed 100,000 francs.

They miraculously came to hand...

the very day after he had stolen the 100,000 francs from Larouette...

that he had just paid him.

Just a coincidence.

You can't condemn a man for that.

There's no coincidence... And if I give you the proof?

Yes, the evidence that the stolen notes and notes found at Laroque's...

were the same.

I challenge you to prove it.

I accept the challenge, Counsellor.

Tell us about these banknotes.

When I was counting out the notes for Mr Larouette...

Mr Laroque knocked over the ink bottle...

and ink spilled on about a dozen notes.

In that case, according to article 139...

- Thanks... we know the rest... Bailiff?

Even without the serial numbers...

the ink stains condemn Laroque.

I'm innocent... . I swear that I'm innocent!

Let us concede for one moment, the existence of your debtor.

You know him.

How do you explain how Larouette's notes came into his possession?

My debtor can NOT be suspected!

It would make no difference if I identified him.

You're damaging your case, Laroque... I'm warning you!

Bring in Suzanne Laroque.

Silence!... or I'll empty the court!

Come closer, my child... come closer.

My child...

from the balcony of your house...

you saw a man going into Larouette's house...

and kill him as he was counting his money.

What clothes was this man wearing?

How was he dressed?

I don't know.

You recognised your father and you cried out "Daddy! Daddy!"

No.

You have to say... “No, Your Honour. "

You're a very nice little girl...

very sensible, I know... and we shan't hurt you.

You saw a man in Mr Larouette's room.

Did he look like your father?

- I don't know. - Your mother recognised him.

You heard your mother say something.

I didn't see anyone.

By persisting in saying nothing, my girl...

my girl...

my little Suzanne, you can do great harm to your father.

Why don't you tell the truth?

Who's stopping you? Are you scared of something, or someone?

I don't know what you want. Why are you asking me all this?

I can't talk about something I don't know about.

You mustn't feel that I'd want to distress you, my girl...

I'm your friend. Now listen carefully...

I'll explain what I want and why I'm talking this way.

There was a weak and defenceless old man...

And someone killed this old man...

and stole his money.

And everyone's been saying that you saw who killed him.

And this is a very great crime... do you realise that?

There has to be punishment for it.

If someone had killed your mummy, wouldn't you want them to be punished?

Silence!... Or I'll empty the court!

You know the truth... but you don't WANT to tell it!

Otherwise you would!

If you do know who it is, you're covering for a friend...

- So who is it'? - Sir...

This child's silence condemns you, Laroque!

My dear girl, I'm innocent!

You have to believe me.

Listen to me, little girl... I have no wish to harm your daddy.

I'm sure you love him very much.

It depends on you whether or not he's back with you right away.

You'll be able to hug him, to have fun with him...

look in his pockets for any surprises he brings home from town.

Are you paying attention? You saw the man who killed Larouette.

If it was your father, you needn't say anything...

If it was someone else, don't be afraid to say.

I don't know anything at all. Why are you tormenting me so?

- You're not lying? - No.

You didn't see your father?

No.

The Good Lord will punish you if you were lying!

Yes.

Do you want to go to hell?!

No.

Silence! Silence!

Members of the jury...

there stands before you a ruthless man...

a man whose hand does not shake...

when aiming at the heart of his victim.

Look carefully, members of the jury...

. . at the face of the man sitting on the bench of infamy.

In those eyes you will find your verdict.

Il will be merciless, I am sure.

That is why I have no hesitation in demanding capital punishment.

If Roger Laroque had been the murderer...

wouldn't he have wanted to hide the proceeds of his crime?

And instead, he comes to work happy, that morning...

because he has avoided the possibility of bankruptcy.

He throws his cashier a wad of 1,000-franc banknotes.

Had he been the murderer, he would have known these notes would be identifiable.

Prudence would have dictated to act cautiously...

watching for an opportunity to exchange those banknotes.

But as he was innocent...

he felt no need for precaution.

There remain the ink-stains, upon which the prosecution rests...

and the mysterious person, the accused refuses to identify.

Laroque maintains that this money was the repayment of a debt...

and refuses to name the debtor.

I know my friend Roger.

And I know that since the day he saved my life during the war...

He is not capable of lying.

The debtor does exist.

And I believe I have solved this mystery.

Here we have a question of honor.

It is a so delicate sense of honor, he'd rather sacrifice wealth and freedom.

Imagine that Roger Laroque is the holder of a secret...

on which his wife's happiness depends.

Imagine this weak, timorous woman, attending this trial...

not daring to open up to the world, because of her family and children...

torn by two obligations...

one to speak and one to remain silent.

Roger Laroque is your wife's lover. He obtained the 100,000 francs from her.

Turn around and question him.

Members of the court. Members of the jury.

I must withdraw as defense counsel for my client.

This session is adjourned.

Given the circumstances, the court will retire to deliberate.

Roger-The-Shame he was called...

He was a criminal, cursed it's said...

But this story can only be told...

when all the kiddies are in bed!

Listen to the terrible fate

Of he who killed his neighbour

- You'll trust the coachman? - Well, he took the money.

- Where will it happen? - At Jumping-Wolf Bend.

We'll die anyway...

If not here, in Noumea...

He shot Mr. Larouette...

And then look his dough...

The police solved it, but

The villain stilt said no...

He'd not done the deed.

Run for your life, you fool!

14 years late, a wealthy American industrialist, William Farney...

moved into 'Chateau Maison Blanche' near Paris.

Your dinner, Mr Farney.

Put it on the table.

Without moving anything, if possible.

My daughter will be here tomorrow by the 10 o'clock train.

Tell the coachman to prepare the coupé, not the cabriolet.

Tell him I shan't be going with him and he should wait for my daughter.

Very good, sir.

- Where's my father? - In his office.

Daddy!

You didn't come to wait for me at the station!

It's impossible for me to go out. My leg injury is playing up.

Do you need glasses now? Do you have eye problems?

Never with you around. I miss you when you're away from me.

Do you like Versailles? How is Mrs Brousse?

Very well.

You couldn't even lake a little walk with me?

Not just now.

You'll be happy here, Suzanne'? Paris is quite close by.

I didn't get you here, just to lock you up.

I'm never bored with you... and the house is gorgeous.

The countryside is adorable.

Don't you move... I'll go and get help.

I'm injured.

Do forgive me... It was my fault...

I was shooting at a pheasant, and I scared your horse.

Try to move your legs. Are you in pain?

Yes... I have a headache.

Don't be afraid... I'll be right back.

You should see Miss Suzanne, sir. She's lying down.

- What's wrong? - She had an accident.

Why didn't you tell me before?!

The horse panicked. I'm not as good with them as I thought.

But I'm quite alright, Daddy.

You really scared me, my girl.

Who's the young man?

He lives nearby, on a property called 'Méridon'.

His name's Raymond. - Surname?

Raymond de Noirville.

What did you say?

Raymond de Noirville.

- Does he live with his parents? - With his mother.

His father died some years ago. Committed suicide.

Raymond's a lawyer... the same as his father was.

His mother has devoted her life to him.

She sold everything in Paris and withdrew to that house.

She wanted Raymond to take up his father's career.

Daddy, don't you think we should go see this lady...

and thank her for the care her son has given me?

You don't think so? - No, I don't think so.

And you know very well I can't go out at the moment.

It's as I said before, Inspector.

A rheumatic who can sprint like a rabbit...

who wears sunglasses in his office...

that's rather strange.

Can I trust you to do something for me...

Could I ask you to collect all information possible...

about this person.

I'd thought about that, sir... But he has everything locked up.

And I daren't take risks... It's a good position.

We need to be very careful.

This may be William Farney, citizen of the USA...

But I've had a lead... and you can help me.

I've no qualms about handcuffing an American millionaire.

So it could come to that?

So what would happen to our jobs, Inspector?

You'll have no regrets.

We know how to recognize services rendered.

Very good, Inspector.

Thank you, Jeanne.

Some champagne, please.

Jeanne...

Aren't you hungry?

I know why my daughter's feeling sad.

I feel that tomorrow all will be well.

If we were to go over to... What was it called? 'Méridon"?

In that case I'll have some dessert. Jeanne.

Your son would have told you about my daughter's accident.

I've been remiss in not coming earlier, to thank you personally.

I was not at home when Suzanne returned.

When I think, that without your son, madam...

right now, my daughter...

- You were born in America, sir? - Yes, madam... in Canada.

- You don't have an English accent. - Many Canadians are French.

My father was English and my mother French.

Do you have a preference for France?

Daddy, would you believe that Raymond prefers the gramophone to the piano...

. . and Wagner to Beethoven.

And I hate 'Cyrano de Bergerac'. That's a fact.

I shan't confess any more than that.

This house is cold.

We'd get better acquainted out in the sun.

Maybe just some more light...

I was injured in a serious fire.

My eyesight has suffered a lot from it.

That's why I wear these... though I know it seems impolite.

- A cigar? - No thank you. I don't smoke.

You've never smoked?

No, madam. Never.

I'm surprised your father doesn't have an automobile.

That'll come.

I go back to Paris on Saturday.

Shall I see you Sunday?

Perhaps.

Suzanne! Suzanne!

Very good. Perfect. Very good.

Mrs de Noirville wishes to speak with you.

There is a reason for my visit, and I'll come straight to that reason.

You'll forgive me if I seem rather agitated.

You'll realise the reason for it, when I tell you that my son's happiness...

and my peace of mind, depend upon how you reply.

Raymond loves your daughter. And I have the honor to request...

That's quite impossible!

My son didn't confess his love to me...

because he realized the difference in our fortunes. I'm sure he's afraid.

Very well... so your son's in love with her.

It's impossible... I should have realised and stopped it.

If my daughter was in love with him, she would have told me.

How did you come to know? - I caught many smiles...

heard the confessions in exchanges of courtesies.

I've noticed nothing... Nothing at all!

Our situations are far from equal.

I would never have dared to aspire to this alliance...

if Raymond had not been one of the best lawyers in Paris.

He's going to be even more famous than his father.

Whose reputation has reached America.

Someone told me about his last plea...

I don't know the story.

You know about that?

He was acting for one of his friends, accused of theft and murder.

He proclaimed his innocence. - He WAS innocent, sir.

He was condemned, however.

It wasn't the first judicial error.

What became of him? Was he pardoned?

He died...

during an attempted escape.

What is it, madam?

So... you refuse?

- I'll question Suzanne. - Wait a moment.

Think of our children's' despair, if you refuse.

I'm fully aware of that.

Thank you, Mr Farney.

Their enjoyment and their happiness will thank you better than I could.

So what do you want to say to me?

You can't guess?

No.

Aren't you happy that your secret's been discovered?

I've no secrets from you.

Suzanne, my pet...

Mrs de Noirville has asked me for your hand, for her son.

You are not indifferent towards Raymond...

. . and your sympathy for him is obvious.

Yes, I regard Raymond as a good friend...

Is it no more than friendship?

What's your response to Mrs de Noirville?

Feel quite free. I shan't try to influence your decision.

It seemed to us that you loved Raymond.

You know that I don't want to marry.

My happiness is being with you. - I won't be here forever.

I've told you what I want... I don't wish to marry.

Don't you love Raymond?

So there's someone else in America that you love?

Don't assume anything... I just don't wish to marry.

Is that your last word?

I'm happy as I am.

Raymond adores you... That's an absolute fact.

Would you be willing to swear before your father and me...

that you don't love my son? - Yes.

Swear then.

I swear that...

- Why? - I don't wish to be married.

- You have no other reasons? - Such as what?

I respect your secret, whatever it may be.

I don't have any.

Your stubbornness makes me assume even the improbable.

I know you love Raymond.

My dear, you have to tell me... I want you to tell me.

This is your father's wish! - There's nothing.

You're lying... I'm ordering you to tell me!

I'm losing patience... tell me! - No!

- I'm your father. This is an order! - No!

Mummy and I saw you kill Larouette!

You saw ME?!

Yes. All that was said was true... You hid it.

I don't want to marry Raymond...

because I don't want that one day the police...

You really believe I'm guilty? What can I say lo prove to you... '.7

It is true that the name you bear is not yours.

You're the daughter a man who is hiding

but I'm not hiding through fear of justice.

Do you think that if I'd murdered in order to steal...

I'd ever dare hold you in my arms, my dear little daughter?

Don't cry.

We can't control our memories.

I have never suffered so much...

as on the day your mother and you accused my by your silence.

And I who'd thought "Roger-The-Shame" was dead.

I AM innocent. Are you listening, Suzanne?

I thought you would have forgotten... but if you do remember...

Listen to me... are you listening?

Do you remember the details of that affair?

The thing that condemns me was the money found in my cash box.

I have to ask your forgiveness...

I have a confession to make.

I had been in love with a married woman.

This woman had debts her husband knew nothing about.

I was able to lend her the 100,000 francs.

She was the one who repaid me...

the same day the murder of Larouette was discovered.

Had I said anything, I would have lost her.

I couldn't do it.

But why didn't SHE say anything?

I'd left her and she hated me.

$0?

She had a child, feared her husband, the scandal...

Women are weak and cowardly.

They go too far, both in hate and love.

And once the harm is done, they don't know how to fix it.

I'm a woman too, Daddy.

You're my number one!

So in that case...

there is a guilty person.

He looked like you, he was your height, he was dressed like you.

That's what my mother and I both saw... Who was it?

I don't know.

He can't hide so well that I shan't find him one day.

That's the reason I left America...

where I was safe, to come to France, where they think I'm dead...

but where the slightest slip-up could be fatal.

I don't dream of vengeance... just rehabilitation.

I'm tired of shame. I thirst for honor.

You don't think Mrs de Noirville recognised you'?

I no longer look like the Roger Laroque of old.

I looked for my old accountant...

I looked straight at him, without my glasses...

and he didn't recognise me. - That's funny.

I got the impression she knew who you were...

but that she's keeping quiet, to protect you.

Or else, she's waiting.

- Answer it, Jeanne. - Me? That thing?

This is witchcraft for Americans, this is.

Hello... yes?

This is the residence of Mr William Farney.

Mrs de Noirville calling?

Miss Suzanne?

You wish to speak to her?

No. Miss Suzanne isn't here. She's away.

I don't know when she'll be back.

Very well, Mr Noirville.

- Why are you avoiding me? - I can't tell you.

Because of your money'? But I'll be rich one day.

I love you too much, to be humbled by the difference in our fortunes.

- It's not that. - Then what is it?

You drive me to despair, Suzanne!

Mr Farney doubtless chose a son-in-law...

and you don't wish to disobey him. - Not at all.

I couldn't be happier than if I was your wife...

and bear your name. - So, why not, Suzanne?

I know you'll imagine all sons of things... but I simply can't tell you.

It concerns my father and me.

Promise me to keep the secret, Raymond... on your honor.

Is it necessary to swear?

I can't marry you, because Farney is not my name.

I'm the daughter of a man who is in hiding.

But he's innocent, I swear to you.

You know about his crime, because your father defended him.

So you're Roger Laroque's daughter?!

My father was adamant that believed him innocent.

My father would never have had a thief and murderer for a friend.

Do you not doubt his innocence, either?

But hasn't he remembered my mother?

Of course he did. And I'm sure he fears being careless.

But what about my mother?

Not even his friends have recognised him.

But one thing is certain...

If your father is innocent, there's someone who's guilty.

I can find him... together with your father.

I have friends at all levels of government.

Don't worry... I'll be careful...

I'll be doing it for YOU.

Mum...

You saw Suzanne Farney'?

Mum, I'm very happy-

Can you read in this poor light?

You'll strain your eyes. - I wasn't really reading.

Darkness relaxes me.

Mum...

Suzanne Farney is the daughter of Roger Laroque. Can you believe it?!

- Roger Laroque is dead. - No, he's not!

Suzanne explained it to me. I'll tell you.

Laroque is innocent.

My father was right to like him.

Laroque let himself be condemned to save the honor of a woman.

He could only save himself by exposing her.

You must admire THAT!

She held this man's honor in her hands...

and she said nothing. How could anyone be so cowardly?

Who is it? Did Suzanne give her name?

Suzanne? No.

Her father didn't tell her. He still couldn't break his vow to himself.

He didn't tell her anything.

This woman, who was closely involved with all of the story...

was an accomplice in that murder.

The woman must be found, whatever it takes.

- Raymond... - She has to be found!

I'll go through all dad's papers...

I'll find that file and go through it with a fine toothcomb.

But, Raymond, if this woman has children...

it would be terrible to pass that on to the courts...

and have her covered in shame, after so long.

Did SHE think about Laroque's children?

Did she think about Henriette Laroque, who was also a mother?

I'm sure that your father wouldn't have wanted to.

We'll decide that when the time comes.

Meanwhile, I mustn't lose a minute.

Tristot and Pivolet Private Investigators

- Do you wish to see Mr Tristot or Pivolet? - Both.

Pivolet!

I wanted to speak with both of you...

because you were involved in a case that made headlines.

We've been involved in many crime cases.

The Ville-d'Avray murder.

- The Laroque case. - Yes.

So what is it you want?

I want you to provide information that will settle the case.

But the verdict was final.

The guilty man was sentenced...

and died during an escape.

He was innocent.

I am Roger Laroque.

Do you think I'd have come to see you if I were guilty?...

you, the two hounds that I had at my heels.

I could be living in America, free and undisturbed.

I'm wealthy. I legally carry another name.

My presence is the best proof of my innocence.

Hell! I guess we've got to believe you!

If you want us to help you, we must know ALL the truth...

and nothing but the truth!

The name of William Farney is that of a New York industrialist...

whose associate I'd become.

I did him a great service...

during a fire that ravaged his factory.

He was elderly, with no family.

When he died, he bequeathed me everything, including his identity.

I had told him everything... including my desire to return to France.

Were you aware of any enemies? I mean, 14 years ago.

Nobody did anything to harm me...

Apart from Larouette's claim which was ruining me.

I thought about that question a lot, over the years.

No, wait.

I remember a remark of Mrs de Noirville's.

She was the wife of my lawyer, who was my best friend.

She had interrupted conversation with her husband...

Saying that if it was not me, it must have been someone who looked like me...

Dark hair, same height, same build. That described one of Mr de Noirville's clients.

He sounded like a good client... the way he spoke to him.

- Luversan. - Luversan, we know him, don't we'?

Yes, he's involved in a stockbroking business.

It's possible that there was a resemblance back then...

but it may not still be the case. - I've aged.

Nothing easier that to find him.

Did you know him?

I've never seen him. Why should he want to hull me'?

I'd like you to bring me any information you can find about him.

On my side, I'll continue searching.

But I need your help... I've no time to lose.

We'll start today.

- I do thank you. - We enjoy a challenge.

We like those complex cases...

that others would find too difficult.

We'll be aiming for a victory...

certainly not a defeat.

Is that you? You must be joking!

It's as if I sang “I made bruises on your white skin“.

Nice, eh?

Ssh!

I always lock the door.

There's someone there.

You're scaring me.

You stupid fool!

What is it? What happened?

I didn't see anything!

What do you use these for...?

Your muscles!... This thing here!

What do I pay you for? Why do I pay you, you idiot!?

The safe!

- They're not still here? - They weren't going to wait for me.

Doesn't seem they took everything.

They haven't touched the money.

That's very strange.

They've taken old papers and letters.

Maybe they collected scrap paper!

It's nothing to giggle about!

I don't like what I don't understand.

Zubair.

Mathias Zubair.

That's it!

Luversan is Mathias Zubair!

I can still see Zubair... Riding away ahead of me in the forest...

galloping like a maniac... trying to escape me.

You bastard... there... I was sure of it.

Under the authority granted to it...

this court-martial finds guilty of high treason...

Lieutenant Mathias Zubair...

convicted of spying for the enemy.

Lieutenant Mathias Zubair

is sentenced to dishonourable discharge...

and to be shot at dawn tomorrow.

Cavalry Sergeant Laroque...

who uncovered Mathias Zubair's treachery...

will command the firing squad.

I'll get you, Laroque.

Roge!

Yes.

Roger Laroque.

To you, and because of you, "Roger-The-Shame".

It's because of you that I had to escape...

that I risked all to get my daughter back...

I worked like crazy...

for the relief and joy of exposing myself to you.

But once again, you guessed who I was.

The grotesque comedy of the dark glasses.

Your daughter told everything to my son. They love each other.

But I'd already recognized your voice... I recognized it right away.

And I kept on hearing it... and fear never left me.

The report of my death must have reassured you.

Perhaps you were waiting for someone.

Luversan, no doubt.

Luversan? Me'?

He could come. He'd have the right to come.

I made every effort to escape him.

I gave him what Lucien had left.

I left Paris, but he must know where I am.

And then he'll want... You don't believe me.

You have to believe me, Roger.

I know that he discovered our secret and was blackmailing me.

I swear I'm telling the truth.

You think he's Luversan? His real name is Mathias Zubair.

He was spying for the Germans during the war.

I unmasked him... He vowed I'd pay dearly for it.

After the war he changed his name and became Luversan.

A day, he found me, spied on me, kept abreast of my affairs.

My difficulties were no secret.

He discovered my liaison with you.

He came to see you. He had you in his power.

The evening Larouette got his repayment...

Luversan asks you to arrange a meeting with me.

- Not true! - At 11pm.

But this is mad!

I thought that the letter came from you.

You were threatening to go to my wife. - Not true!

Luversan deters witnesses, depriving me of any alibi.

He dresses like me, goes to Ville-d'Avray...

he enters Larouette's house, robs him... but Larouette put up a fight.

Luversan had to add murder to theft.

The trap has become even better.

The next day he gives you the stolen money...

and tells you to give it to me.

Without understanding, you obey him.

By the time you realised what had happened, it was too late.

You kept quiet.

Forgive me.

It's true. That's what I did.

Don't curse me!

I loved you so much, Roger.

I regretted it so much!

I'm a victim too.

There were ways to make amends!

I was told you were dead.

If I could have changed the past... But it was too late.

As soon as I realized that the murderer was Luversan...

that the 100,000 francs were the notes that I had taken myself...

that Luversan had used me...

it was too late.

The trial was over.

I wanted to die.

But I lived for Raymond.

My punishment could not be more cruel, since it comes from you.

What do you plan to do, Madam?

I had so much begged you. Do you remember?

I was humiliating myself, but you wouldn't listen.

I asked you what you intended to do, Madam.

What would you expect me to do?

I'll confess my fault... I'll kiss your hands!

But I beg of you... Think of Suzanne and Raymond.

They love each other. How can I atone for my sins?

I'll find the judges that sentenced you.

I'll tell them how I had debts...

that I had a passion for you...

and that the secret fell into Luversan's hands.

That won't be enough to prove my innocence.

Luversan will deny it and the judges won't believe you.

Luversan will have to admit it for the judges to believe it.

You're going to help me.

Luversan won't be wary of you. He'll be led to believe...

that you want to introduce him to an American millionaire...

who's your neighbour in the country. - He'll recognize you. - No.

Introduced by you, he won't be looking for Roger Laroque in this American.

The thought of my money will cloud his memories.

Allow me to introduce my neighbour, William Farney.

Farney and Funon Company. New York.

Your reputation precedes you sir.

How are you?

Please...

Mr Luversan is one of the most active stockbrokers in Paris.

I thought of him when you told me your intentions.

Forgive my dark glasses... I have very delicate eyes.

Mr Farney, who speaks very good French, as you're aware...

has settled in France.

He would like to focus on certain businesses.

I hate holidays.

I'm rich, but Paris isn't New York or Chicago.

I risk becoming a victim of swindlers.

They're in America too... but I know them!

I'm flattered, sir.

Here's my card and my office address.

If you like, I could show you around the stock exchange.

In the hands of Luversan, my money's compromised.

If the deal fails, Luversan's ruined.

I know how far he can go with his credit.

“Precarious situation. Need funds. "

- It'll be ruin and the criminal court. - Perfect.

But it's going to cost you a lot.

I'm rich.

A loss of 2 or 3 million would be a serious problem, even for royalty.

I'm not royalty, I'm an American.

But what if you're wrong... and it wasn't Luversan?

I'll make good my mistake.

Money matters are easy to solve.

I'll buy up big on Guatemala Petroleum...

I sell them at a ridiculous price... I cause a huge drop...

I organize the panic...

I keep it going until Luversan has passed the point of no return.

We'll have to expect that Luversan,

when he senses danger... will be asking for your help.

I'm counting on it.

We're ruined... At least, I'm ruined.

You're so rich, you can always get out of it.

The petroleum deal... down the drain!

The Exchange has ganged up against me.

What I'd like to do to those bastards!

Nothing would've escaped you. You'd learn.

You've put in a lot of money...

It was my duty to warn you.

It was a deal that was well promoted... and the promise of a quick profit.

That's what you told me. Yes... down the drain.

What a disaster!

I'm ruined, unless you can help me.

I need money.

I need money... Can I count on you?

It's a total mess! If you don't help me, I...

I could... How do you say'?... go into mourning!

Alright... but what about ME?

Anyway, it's not over yet.

With money, I can proceed against my enemies!

That's important.

I have to think about it.

How much do you need?

One million, very quickly...

Pretty quickly.

It's a lot. But I expected more.

I'll let you know tomorrow evening.

Will it be YES?

Can't say. Come to my place tomorrow.

- At Rue d'Amsterdam? - No... it's Saturday tomorrow.

I won't be in my office... I'll be in the country.

You know, I live very simply.

As I have neither family nor servants...

I'm content with very little.

I've rented a house just out of Paris.

I'll be waiting for you there tomorrow evening.

It's in Ville-d'Avray.

What's the address?

- Do you know the district? - No.

It's easy... You take the road from Paris...

When you get to the end, it's a house on the right...

beside a villa.

The house is very well known.

There was a murder there about 20 years ago.

Some old fellow was murdered.

The house bears his name... 'La Maison Larouette'

Anyone can show you.

Just let me check...

Ville-d'Avray, road from Paris, last house on the right.

La... Larouette.

That's it... you can't go wrong.

See you tomorrow.

- And I'll get an answer? - Yes.

Favourable?.

- Not so sure. - Mr Farney... I beg you!

- A million is a lot. - It's nothing to you.

And it's life or death for me...

On my honor.

We'll see... tomorrow.

I'm sorry, but I've no servants.

You look rather ill.

No. I was walking quickly, that's all.

I'll lead the way.

Forgive the simplicity of my reception...

But I'm just an old boy, and American, to boot.

For old boy read 'fuss-pot' and for American read 'eccentric'.

Come through.

It is not very attractive, but it is only temporary.

I kept the furniture that was here.

I must confess to one eccentricity...

I find it amusing to sleep in the bed where the poor devil was murdered.

I told you about it. Do you remember the event?

It seems Larouette was attacked from behind.

He was sitting at his desk. He had no way of defending himself.

The table was overturned. The body fell right where you are.

Don't worry, there's no blood left.

I sort of regret it.

Well, sit down. What's the matter? You seem upset.

- Is it because of the room'? - No, no... I'm just on tenterhooks.

My living and my honor depend on what you are going to tell me.

Yes, that's terrible for you...

Makes me very upset.

Believe me... Really truly upset!

So you're refusing.

I didn't say that. I'm not totally refusing.

Even I was going to accept... You need a million?

Yes.

Proof that I'd accept...

is that I went to Paris to get hold of the million.

I have some of it here.

But speaking to my bankers, who are my friends...

I told them what I was going to do with the money.

They assured me that to support your company...

would be totally idiotic.

I'm very embarrassed.

I beg you, sir...

You can't abandon me!

You have to trust me.

To risk a million like that is just throwing it away.

It's nothing personal.

Rather than that...

I have here more than 500,000 francs in notes and gold that I intended for you.

I would have given you a cheque for the balance tomorrow.

- Give me a day to think about it. - Not possible.

I'm at the end of my tether!

I'll look into it... think about il... Tomorrow.

It won't take much to make me decide.

Keep your chin up!

Tomorrow the money will be there for you to take.

See you tomorrow.

YOu!

- Admit you killed Larouette! - Never!

Roger Laroque!

He's going to die!

You'll confess your crime?

Speak! if you want us to have mercy on you, Zubair!

Say after me... "l killed Larouette. "

“I was the one who killed Larouette. " Say it!

Say it!

It was me...

who killed... Larouette.

Roger?

You weren't even going to say goodbye?

- Roger... - I understand your leaving, Julia.

I was even thinking of asking you to.

If only you knew... that one day I would like...

I know... Have faith in the future.

Just give it time.

Believe me, I've put it all behind me. - Yes.

Raymond will marry Suzanne... I'll keep an eye on them.

Will I have the strength to go on? Goodbye, Roger.

Subtitles by FatPlank for KG.

Custom DVD by neverever